Maple Sugar Season in the White Mountains
As winter gives way to spring in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, a sweet tradition comes alive—maple sugaring. From mid-March through early April, the region’s sugar maples begin to flow, ushering in one of New England’s most beloved seasonal experiences. For guests of The Mountain Club on Loon, this is a unique time to witness local heritage in action and savor the unmistakable taste of real New Hampshire maple syrup—all from a scenic base nestled on Loon Mountain.
A Time-Honored Tradition
Maple sugaring has deep roots in the region, beginning with the Indigenous peoples who first tapped trees to harvest sap. Today, New Hampshire sugarhouses continue this tradition with passion and pride, crafting small-batch syrups that reflect the land and the weather of each specific season. Modern producers still rely on many of the time-tested techniques, using both traditional buckets and modern tubing systems to collect sap, which is then boiled down into the golden syrup that defines spring in the Northeast.
Where to Experience It
For those staying at The Mountain Club on Loon, it’s easy to explore maple season just minutes from the resort. A standout is Fadden’s General Store & Maple Sugarhouse, located in North Woodstock, less than ten minutes away. A family-owned business since 1896, Fadden’s offers guided tours of its working sugarhouse and a charming museum that tells the story of sugaring in the White Mountains. Guests can sample fresh syrup and pick up maple-infused treats to take home.
Another nearby favorite is Babel’s Sugar Shack, a small-scale operation known for its warm hospitality and high-quality syrup. Visitors can see the evaporator in action and chat with the producers about the unique science of sugaring—why some years produce more sap than others, and what makes a syrup light amber versus dark robust.
The NH Maple Experience at The Rocks
Just a short drive north in Bethlehem, the NH Maple Experience at The Rocks offers a hands-on, educational look at sugaring. Run by the Forest Society, this program includes tree tapping demonstrations, sap collection walks, and wagon rides through the estate. Guests can also tour the interactive museum and watch syrup being made in real-time. It’s a family-friendly outing and a great opportunity to learn the story behind the sweet stuff.
A Sweet Stay at The Mountain Club on Loon
Springtime at The Mountain Club is a relaxing and scenic escape, made even better by the joys of maple season. After exploring sugarhouses and savoring sweet samples, guests can return to the resort for a maple-inspired cocktail or dessert at Black Diamond Pub. The on-site culinary team frequently features seasonal specials, incorporating local syrup into both sweet and savory dishes.
And when the day winds down, there’s no better way to relax than with a spa treatment at Viaggio Spa & Wellness Center or a dip in the indoor pool. As the mountains begin to thaw and the air fills with the promise of spring, the resort offers the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and local flavor.
A Seasonal Treat Worth the Trip
Maple sugar season is more than just a time to enjoy syrup—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. For guests of The Mountain Club on Loon, it’s also a chance to explore the White Mountains at a quieter, sweeter pace. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or making it a springtime ritual, maple season is a flavorful way to experience the heart of New Hampshire.